I remember as a sighted child at the age of seven, My older brother and I would play the Atari on occasion. Especially, when we were both bored and had nothing better to do. Growing up, I had somewhat of a difficult time. Living between a divorced family is difficult. Video games seem to distract me from the sadness of reality. Growing up was fun but, having supervision from an adult was rare. I got in trouble because I listen to the wrong people. Needless to say, I learn from my mistakes.
After high school, I join the US military. That was something I always wanted to do. I serve my country in Afghanistan and Iraq. I came home and used my knowledge towards an education in electronics. I learned as much as I could and enjoyed helping people.
Later in life, I got married. My wife also liked to play video games also. That was always fun. I started my career with the veterans Administration Hospital. I used my electronics background to help people who were ill get better. That made me happy. I love my job because I could help people and enjoy what I did every day. It gave me a sense of purpose, I felt like I belonged.
I was shot in 2013. Just an innocent person in the wrong place at the wrong time. I was lucky to be alive after being shot in my head. Doctors were shocked that I survived. One doctor told my mom that I must have had a strong heart. Getting out of the hospital was very difficult for me. I was blind and thought my life was over. Boy was I wrong! I went to the blind rehab center in Chicago Illinois, for visually impaired veterans. They taught me that living with this disability was not the end of the world. I could manage and overcome any obstacle. I could do anything I put my mind to. They would help me. They would not let me fail. I didn't even know they had video games for visually impaired gamers. I was very surprised. Gaming as a blind person became a good hobby for entertainment.
My first book was published in January 2018. I am still very proud of that accomplishment. It took me a while to shift into something else. I still like to play video games. After a year or so, I got bored. There wasn't much for my community. Especially, games that were action based. I felt my purpose change. I searched and searched. I finally found a digital software company who was willing to make my dream come true. I gave them my rough draft for Circus Master Revenge. They were excited.
In a year and a half of hard work and socializing within the visually impaired community, the Circus Master Revenge made the Apple store. I finally realized that dreams can come true if you're willing to work for them.
My advice to anyone with any disability, keep your head up and let your imagination create your most beautiful picture. Only then will you let your spirit fly. Only then will you become what you were meant to become. Believe in your dreams. Nobody else can do that for you. Always do your own research. Don't pay off the project before the contractor is finished with it. Unless you like losing your money and looking like a fool to everyone around you. Stay humble and motivated. Always be willing to learn something new. always be ready and willing to make a new friend. That is what life is all about. If you find your gift or purpose in life and you are good at it, don't ever let anyone tell you you cannot do it. Follow your heart and nothing else will matter.